Baby Shower Theme: Modern, Chic Mama

The modern-day mom will appreciate a streamlined bash.

She's a fan of design blogs and fashion mags, and plans to be a thoroughly modern mama. Skip the cutesy shower and go with a graphic invite, deliciously trendy desserts, and decorations as elegant as she is.

The Invite: A classic palette of black-and-white is sure to please. We chose this chic invite from Paperspring that quietly announces the event while setting the modern tone with a single orchid.

The Decor: Start with crisp white linens and build from there. Layer a simple black table runner down the center and continue the orchid theme from the invite by placing a few stems in tall glass cylinder vases on tables. If you’d prefer low centerpieces, fill large clear bowls with water and float a few preserved orchid blossoms on top. Hang a mix of black and white paper lanterns in various sizes. To finish, tie a black satin bow around each chair back and hang colorful pacifier beads from each to introduce a little color and baby-friendly props.

The Cake: Rather than a traditional cake, go for a tasting menu of assorted desserts. Set out cream cheese frosting-topped red-velvet cupcakeschocolate whoopie pies and trendy new cake balls, which are small bites of cake and frosting dipped in a sweet coating.

The Game: Parenting advice has no doubt evolved over the years. What was once a must-do may be a big don't today! Play a game of "Parenting Tips, Then and Now." Create a mixed list of "old wives' tale" remedies and advice for modern-day parents and have guests guess which is which.

The Favor: Indulge guests in a classic treat: an oversized black-and-white cookie. Wrap it in a glassine cookie bag and seal with chic damask labels from Bellissimo Favors.